Ear SurgeryOtoplasty, or ear surgery, is the treatment of ear deformities. The most common and well known of these is "ear pinning."
An overgrowth of cartilage and undeveloped folds are the most common causes of prominent ears. In the case of undeveloped folds, they can be created relatively easily with just an incision behind the ear.
In the case of newborns and small children, ear deformities can often be treated non-surgically and without anaesthesia by using splints. Treatment usually begins at around 6-10 years of age. In the case of adults, treatment is usually performed with minimal anaesthesia and local injections of lidocaine.
After surgery, the ears must be protected -- usually with a headband -- for 6 to 8 weeks. Contact sports should be avoided during this time as well.
Insurance generally does not cover otoplasty except in the case of a severe developmental deformity that requires significant reconstruction.
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